Growing up in a Sicilian household, my grandmother's Baked Ziti was a Sunday tradition! It wasn't until I binge-watched 'The Sopranos' that I found myself craving those nostalgic flavors and decided to recreate this iconic Italian dish. This Baked Ziti is worthy of a spot on my grandmother's Sicilian table and perhaps a mob boss's approval. The best part about this dish is how much is makes! It's Baked Ziti perfect for a crowd!
Looking for more pasta recipes? Try my Baked Pasta Bolognese, Italian Lasagna, Roasted Red Pepper Pasta, Gnocchi alla Sorrentina, and Pasta alla Vodka.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: This Baked Ziti for a crowd recipe combines the rich, savory goodness of Italian sausage and ground beef with a luscious, cheesy sauce, making every bite a burst of flavor that's sure to leave your taste buds singing.
- Nostalgia and Tradition: If you're looking to evoke memories of family gatherings and Sunday feasts, this dish will transport you back to the heartwarming and comforting meals of your childhood, just like the ones prepared by my Sicilian grandmother.
- Crowd-Pleasing Ease: Whether you're hosting a big family dinner or a casual get-together, this recipe is designed to feed a crowd without stress. It's simple to prepare and a guaranteed hit with everyone, making it perfect for any occasion. Like the name states - it's baked ziti for a crowd!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Full list of ingredients with measurements listed below in recipe card for baked ziti for a crowd.
- Olive oil: Adds richness and depth to the sauce. You can also use butter for a slightly different flavor.
- Penne ziti rigate pasta: Provides the hearty base of the dish. You can substitute with other pasta shapes like rigatoni or mezze maniche.
- Onion: Adds a sweet, aromatic flavor to the sauce. You can also use shallots or leeks for a milder taste.
- Fennel (or substitutes): Offers a unique, slightly anise-like taste. You can use celery for a crunch, bell pepper for sweetness, or omit it if preferred.
- Garlic: Infuses the dish with a fragrant, savory note. You can use garlic powder as an alternative.
- Ground beef and Italian sausage: Provide a meaty, robust taste. You can choose leaner meats for a healthier option or use plant-based meat substitutes for a vegetarian version.
- Salt and pepper: Enhance the overall seasoning and balance of flavors. Adjust to your taste.
- Mozzarella cheese: Adds creamy, gooey richness. You can use provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses for variety.
- Parmesan cheese: Offers a sharp, nutty kick. Pecorino Romano is a good substitute.
- Marinara sauce: Forms the tomato-based foundation of the dish. You can make your own from scratch or use your favorite store-bought brand.
- Frozen peas: Provide a pop of vibrant color and a touch of sweetness. You can omit them or use other vegetables like spinach or diced bell peppers.
Equipment Needed
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Colander for draining pasta
- Large oven-safe pan or skillet for cooking the meat and sauce
- Spoon or spatula for stirring
- Baking dish for assembling and baking the ziti
- Oven for baking
- Grater for grating Parmesan cheese (if not pre-grated)
How to Make this Recipe
Full step-by-step instructions listed below in recipe card for baked ziti for a crowd.
To make this flavorful Baked Ziti for a crowd, begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Cook the penne ziti pasta according to the package instructions, making sure to undercook it by about 2 minutes since it will continue cooking in the oven. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
In a large oven-safe pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and Italian sausage, cooking them until fully browned and crumbled. Once cooked, remove the meat from the pan and drain any excess grease.
Using the same pan, add more olive oil and toss in the diced onion and fennel. Sauté these vegetables until they become soft and translucent, then stir in the minced garlic for about a minute until it becomes fragrant. Return the cooked meat to the pan, and pour in the marinara sauce. Season with salt and pepper to your taste. Stir in half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, reserving the rest for the topping.
Combine the cooked pasta with the sauce mixture until it's evenly coated. Gently fold in the frozen peas for a pop of color and sweetness.
Transfer the ziti mixture into a large oven-safe dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top. If desired, you can cover the dish with aluminum foil.
Bake the ziti in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the ziti is heated through. Once it's ready, remove it from the oven, and serve this delicious, homemade Baked Ziti immediately. For an extra touch of flavor, grate additional Parmesan cheese over each portion at the table. Enjoy the taste of Italian tradition with every bite!
Variations
- Vegetarian Baked Ziti: Omit the ground beef and Italian sausage, and replace them with plant-based meat substitutes or extra veggies like mushrooms and spinach for a vegetarian version.
- Vegan Baked Ziti: To make this recipe entirely vegan, use vegan pasta, dairy-free cheese, and plant-based meat substitutes. Ensure the marinara sauce is also vegan.
- Gluten-Free Baked Ziti: Use gluten-free penne pasta or any gluten-free pasta of your choice to accommodate gluten-sensitive individuals.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheese combinations, such as adding ricotta, provolone, or fontina alongside or in place of the mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Spice It Up: Add crushed red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the sauce for a bit of heat.
- Fresh Herbs: Enhance the flavor by incorporating fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or parsley into the sauce or as a garnish.
- Vegetable Substitutions: Besides fennel, try using zucchini, eggplant, or roasted red peppers for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
- Creamy Baked Ziti: Mix a bit of heavy cream or cream cheese into the sauce for a creamier, decadent version.
- Baked Ziti with Extra Veggies: Incorporate additional vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or artichoke hearts to boost the nutritional value.
- Baked Ziti Casserole: Turn this recipe into a layered casserole by adding a layer of ricotta cheese mixed with egg and herbs between the pasta and sauce layers.
Wine Pairing
- Chianti: A classic Italian red wine, Chianti pairs wonderfully with tomato-based pasta dishes. Its bright acidity and red fruit notes work well with the tangy marinara sauce.
- Merlot: A soft and approachable red wine like Merlot can be an excellent choice. It complements the savory elements of the dish and the richness of the cheese.
- Zinfandel: The fruity and peppery notes of Zinfandel can be a delightful match for the meaty components of the Baked Ziti. It adds a touch of spice and complexity to the pairing.
- Barbera: Barbera is known for its high acidity, which makes it a great match for tomato-based sauces. Its bright, cherry-like flavors can enhance the overall dining experience.
- Sangiovese: Another Italian favorite, Sangiovese wine, often found in Chianti and Brunello di Montalcino, complements the flavors of this Italian dish exceptionally well.
- Cabernet Sauvignon: If you prefer a bolder wine, a Cabernet Sauvignon can work, especially if you love the interplay of dark fruits and tannins with the meaty components of the ziti.
FAQ's
- Can I make this baked ziti for a crowd ahead of time?
- Yes, you can assemble the Baked Ziti ahead of time and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake. Just remember to adjust the baking time, as it may take longer if it's chilled.
- What can I use as a vegetarian substitute for the meat?
- You can use plant-based meat alternatives, such as vegetarian ground beef or sausage, or simply increase the amount of vegetables like mushrooms and spinach.
- How do I reheat leftovers?
- To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for a quick option. For a more oven-like result, cover the dish with foil and bake in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
- Can I freeze Baked Ziti?
- Yes, you can freeze it. Transfer the cooled ziti to an airtight container or freezer-safe dish. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator and then bake as usual.
- What can I serve with Baked Ziti?
- A simple green salad with a balsamic vinaigrette, garlic bread, or garlic knots make excellent accompaniments. Desserts like tiramisu or cannoli add an authentic Italian touch to the meal.
- Is there a lower-calorie version of this recipe?
- You can reduce the calorie content by using lean ground meat, whole-grain pasta, and lower-fat cheese. You can also increase the proportion of vegetables in the dish.
- Can I use a different type of pasta?
- Yes, you can use other pasta shapes like rigatoni, mezze maniche, or penne if ziti is not available. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- How do I make this dish spicier?
- To add some heat, you can include crushed red pepper flakes when sautéing the onions and fennel, or sprinkle them over the dish before baking.
- What's the best way to store leftovers?
- Store any remaining Baked Ziti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Can I make this recipe without dairy for lactose-intolerant guests?
- Yes, you can use dairy-free cheese alternatives and ensure that the meat and marinara sauce are lactose-free. This will make the dish suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.
Tips
- Al Dente Pasta: Cook the pasta just shy of al dente when boiling, as it will continue cooking in the oven. This ensures the pasta doesn't become mushy during baking.
- Grease Drain: After browning the meat, be sure to drain any excess grease before adding it back to the sauce. This helps keep the dish from becoming too oily.
- Seasoning: Season the dish at various stages to build flavor layers. Season the meat, vegetables, and sauce with salt and pepper as needed.
- Melted Cheese: For a gooey, cheesy topping, let the dish bake until the cheese is fully melted and slightly browned on top. You can also broil briefly for that golden crust.
- Mix Well: Ensure the pasta is thoroughly coated with the sauce mixture before transferring it to the baking dish. This ensures even distribution of flavors.
- Optional Herbs: Adding fresh basil, oregano, or parsley can provide a burst of fresh herb flavors to the dish. Sprinkle them over the top before serving.
- Vegetable Alternatives: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables, such as roasted red peppers, mushrooms, or spinach, to customize the recipe to your liking.
- Spice It Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add crushed red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the sauce to give it a kick.
- Make-Ahead: Assemble the dish in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake. This is a great time-saver for entertaining.
- Leftover Love: Leftover Baked Ziti reheats well, so don't hesitate to make extra. It can also be frozen for future easy meals.
- Tasting as You Go: Regularly taste and adjust the seasoning throughout the cooking process to ensure it matches your preference.
- Serving Suggestions: Accompany the Baked Ziti with a simple salad, garlic bread, or crusty Italian rolls for a complete meal.
- Customize the Cheese: Try different cheese combinations to suit your taste. Ricotta, provolone, and fontina can be great additions or replacements.
Looking for more recipes?
Looking for more pasta recipes? Try my Italian Lasagna, Roasted Red Pepper Pasta, and Pasta alla Vodka.
Did You Make this Recipe?
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Recipe Card
📋 Recipe
Baked Ziti
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Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil divided
- 16 ounces penne ziti rigate pasta
- 1 onion diced
- 1 bulb fennel diced (can substitute with celery, bell pepper, or omit)
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- ½ pound ground beef
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese divided
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese divided
- 4 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup frozen peas
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- In a large pot, cook the penne ziti according to the package instructions but reduce the cooking time by 2 minutes to keep it al dente. The pasta will continue cooking in the oven. Drain and set aside.
- In a large, oven-safe pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and Italian sausage. Cook until fully browned and crumbled. Remove the meat from the pan and drain any excess grease.
- In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the diced onion and fennel (or your chosen substitute) and season with a pinch of salt. Sauté the vegetables until they become soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Return the cooked meat to the pan with the sautéed vegetables. Pour in the marinara sauce, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir to combine.
- Add half of the shredded mozzarella and half of the grated Parmesan cheese, reserving the rest for the topping.
- Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce mixture, ensuring it's well coated.
- Gently fold in the frozen peas, distributing them evenly throughout the ziti.
- Transfer the ziti mixture into a large oven-safe dish (or keep it in your oven-safe pot for one less dish to clean!)
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the ziti.
- Bake the ziti in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the ziti is heated through.
- Remove the baked ziti from the oven and serve immediately. For an extra touch of flavor, you can grate additional Parmesan cheese over the top just before serving.
Notes
- Al Dente Pasta: Cook pasta slightly underdone to prevent it from becoming mushy during baking.
- Even Cheese Distribution: Ensure pasta is evenly coated with sauce and cheese for a balanced flavor.
- Monitor Cheese Melt: Watch closely as the cheese on top browns for gooey, not overcooked, results.
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